In an effort to support viewers during these challenging times, HBO is making a substantial array of programming available for free to non-subscribers. This initiative, part of HBO’s #StayHomeBoxOffice campaign, kicks off today, and it’s your chance to dive into an impressive catalog of over 500 hours of content.
What’s Included?
From acclaimed series like Veep, The Wire, and Succession to classics such as The Sopranos and Six Feet Under, there’s something for everyone. This offer also includes a selection of popular documentaries and family-friendly films from Warner Bros. Titles like Pokémon Detective Pikachu, Happy Feet 2, Smallfoot, and The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part will keep the kids entertained, minimizing those endless snack requests and sibling squabbles.
The Rise of Streaming
As we all adhere to stay-at-home orders, streaming has emerged as a vital source of entertainment. HBO, a subsidiary of WarnerMedia, is joining other platforms like Amazon and Broadway HD in providing free content during this period. The surge in viewership is evident, with reports indicating a 20 percent increase in overall television consumption in the past week alone. HBO Now has experienced its highest traffic since last summer, with binge-watching up by 65 percent and movie-watching by 70 percent.
Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s chief content officer, mentioned a notable increase in streaming activity on their platform, while third-party services have also reported significant growth in subscriptions for platforms such as Disney Plus. YouTube Gaming has seen a 15 percent uptick in viewership, as parents juggle work-from-home responsibilities with childcare.
What’s Next for HBO?
This strategic move by HBO, ahead of the launch of HBO Max in May, serves to entice non-subscribers by showcasing what they can expect if they decide to sign up for the service, priced at $14.99 per month. The free access will last throughout April, so take this opportunity to enjoy some classic and new favorites while staying safe at home.
Additional Resources
For more information, check out this other blog post or explore resources on pregnancy and home insemination at Cleveland Clinic’s podcast and Intracervical Insemination.
Conclusion
In summary, HBO is providing a generous offering of free programming to help ease the burdens of stay-at-home life. This initiative not only entertains but also serves as a clever marketing tactic ahead of their new streaming service launch.